Set behind the impressive Chase-Lloyd House on Maryland Avenue lies a lush garden landscape of native plants that supports the ecology of the region and the Chesapeake Bay! Image courtesy of Annapolis Discovered.
The Chase-Lloyd House
The Chase-Lloyd House was built in the 1770's for Samuel Chase, a Supreme court Justice and one of the Maryland signers of the Declaration of Independence. While he was the original builder of the home, he ran out of funds to complete the build and it was sold to Edward Lloyd IV, a wealthy local plantation owner. William Buckland took over as architect and the Georgian mansion was finally completed in 1774.
The original property was much larger than what it is today. When it was built, the property line extended to Prince George street and most likely contained a livery, blacksmith shop as well as stables and gardens.
Anyone can earn the Bay-Wise certification by following the guidelines set forth by the University of Maryland
Extension's Bay-Wise program. Image courtesy of Annapolis Discovered.
The Chase Home Garden
The gardens evolved over the years and the house itself found its way back to the Chase family in 1846. In 1886, Hester Anne Chase Ridout took ownership of the home and established it as 'an independent living facility for elderly woman, and set up a board of trustees to run the house according to the requirements of her will. The board of trustees has now been successfully running the house now for over a century.'1
A brick pathway winds through the Chase Home Garden.
Image courtesy of Annapolis Discovered.
The gardens were certainly a bright spot for the inhabitants of the house for many years. As the garden evolved, a brick pathway was added, ornamental plantings were expanded and under the guidance of Head Gardener of the Chase Home Garden, Kim Forry, native plants and a plan for a Bay-Wise certification was added to the mission.
A Bay-Wise certification plaque stands in the garden.
Image courtesy of Annapolis Discovered.
In 2014, the property was certified as a Maryland Bay-Wise Landscape, and efforts continue to reduce the Home's energy footprint by improving waste management and recycling practices, water conservation, and energy efficiency.2 Now, the Chase Home Gardens are open to the public and available for self-guided as well as guided tours. Officially, this lovely garden is open 1-4 PM, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. However, if you have a small group or find yourself staring through the gate and just can't leave Annapolis without a visit to the gardens, take heart!
The self-guided tour allows you to enjoy the garden at your own pace. The garden blooms all year long with seasonal plantings.
Image courtesy of Annapolis Discovered.
The staff at the Chase Home Garden can schedule private tours upon request, simply visit their website to inquire about a date and time that works for you. Be sure to also follow them on Facebook for new initiatives and events! You will no doubt enjoy this lovely walled garden and the architecture of the Chase-Lloyd House as you wander through the picture perfect arbors and archways and wonder about the grand parties and events that took place behind the gates.
Watch the full video on #AnnapolisDiscovered!
1 & 2 Quoted directly from the Chase-Lloyd House website.
